Here is a smattering of the events going on locally to honor World AIDS Day, many involving chances for you to know your HIV status, most involving fun with a splash of historical context and remembrance. Please check with the individual HIV agencies for more events.
See the list of events:
2nd Annual World AIDS Day Candlelight Walk & Rally
Monday, Nov. 30, 6:30 P.M.
GLBT Community Center of Central Florida, Orlando
Join the GLBT Center of Central Florida and their partners for the second annual World AIDS Day Candlelight Walk and Rally. This event is to remember those lost to the disease, stand with those living with it and look towards the future. This is not a fundraising event, and there is no cost to attend and walk. Candles will be provided. The walk will begin at the Center at 6:30 p.m., and the Rally will begin at 7:15 p.m.. For more information on featured speakers and grand marshals visit TheCenterOrlando.org.
ASAP’s AIDS Prayer Luncheon
Tuesday, Dec. 1, 11:30 A.M.
Empath Health Community Service Center, St. Petersburg
Each year AIDS Services Association of Pinellas (ASAP) sponsors a luncheon for the community to come together and remember those lost to and those living with HIV/AIDS. The theme of World AIDS Day 2015 is “Getting to Zero: Zero new HIV infections. Zero discrimination. Zero AIDS related deaths.” A complimentary lunch will be served beginning at 11:30 a.m. and the program will begin at noon. It will have a remembrance time with prayers and music and culminate with the traditional ringing of the AIDS Memorial Bells. The luncheon is free and open to the public; however, for planning purposes ASAP is requesting RSVP by Wednesday, November 25, to David Maier at 727-328-3263 or email at davidmair@asapservices.org.
Sex-Ed Trivia with Planned Parenthood
Tuesday, Dec. 1, 6:00 P.M.
The Falcon, Orlando
Think you’re a sexpert? Then prove it. Join Planned Parenthood for a night of trivia with a special focus on commemorating World AIDS Day and the importance of getting tested. A $5 donation is suggested per person participating, and groups can be formed with 4-6 people. Teams can be arranged at the door and do not need to be formed prior to the event. Doors open at 6:00 P.M. and trivia will start at 6:30 P.M. Cash bar will be available and all proceeds raised will go to Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida.
A Night of Remembrance
Tuesday, Dec. 1, 12:00- 7:30 P.M.
Lake Eola Amphitheater, Orlando
The Hope & Help Center will be at Lake Eola starting at noon on World AIDS Day for a night of remembrance, celebration and education. They will have free HIV testing beginning at noon outside the Lake Eola Amphitheater. The celebration will begin at 6:00 P.M. and will be hosted by Monica May and Doug Bowser. Additional testing will take place at the Orlando Public Library from 12:00- 4:00 P.M. For more information visit TestOrlando.org.
Did we miss any 2015 World AIDS Day events? Let us know in the comments!
